All dogs over four months of age must be licensed with the City of La Mesa. It is a fairly simple process that keeps you in compliance with the law. Just take your dog to any licensed veterinarian for a rabies shot. Take the proof of rabies vaccination to La Mesa City Hall to purchase your license. License prices vary by the length of time you wish to license your dog and whether the dog is spayed or neutered. Failure to comply with the law could result in a citation to appear in court.

Yes! The City of La Mesa does enforce a leash law LMMC 8.04.130. Dogs must be on leash anytime they leave your property for a walk. This leash law includes all parks in the City of La Mesa. Your dog may be off leash only if he or she is in the enclosed Dog Park area of Harry Griffen Park.

Yes he is. Anytime you walk your dog you are responsible for picking up after your dog or risk a citation LMMC 8.04.320. Citizens are also required to clean up after their pets on their property as well and not let manure accumulate LMMC 8.04.150.

The City of La Mesa offers a few options for removing stray cats that have become a problem. You can rent a humane trap from Animal Control for a daily fee. Once you have the cat, La Mesa Animal Control can pick it up for the City's stray cat pick up fee. All daily trap rental fees are waived if the stray cat pick up fee is paid.

The trapping of wild animals is regulated by State law. Before setting any trap(s) for wild animals citizens should consult the local office of the State Department of Fish & Game.

If any wild animals are inadvertently trapped, they may be released at or within a two mile radius of the location where they were trapped.

The Animal Control Officer is available to advise you on ways to address nuisance cat issues in and around your home or neighborhood which may eliminate the need for trapping. The Police Department encourages you to discuss these options with the Animal Control Officer before setting traps.”

Cats that are captured in traps must be treated humanely and delivered to the animal shelter or the La Mesa Animal Control Officer. The Animal Control Officer will provide you with specific information on where you may take cats that have been trapped.

If you have lost your pet, you should report the animal to La Mesa Animal Control to see if it has been picked up. You should also check with the El Cajon Animal Shelter as all animals found in La Mesa are taken there. The Shelter is located at:

The City of La Mesa is home to an array of native wild animals. Skunks, foxes, opossums, raccoons, ducks, coyotes and bats all call La Mesa home. You may discover that wildlife has become a frequent visitor to your home. Native animals will enter a yard for three main reasons; food, water and shelter. By eliminating these enticements you can make your yard less appealing to the animals, preventing their late night visits. Close all openings under your home, deck and out buildings. Make sure all trash is placed in proper receptacles with a tight lid. Keep small pets indoors at night and bring in any pet food. Keep ripe fruit picked from the tree and raked up from the ground. La Mesa Animal Control can provide you with excellent advice and further tips for managing urban wildlife.

Per the California Penal Code 597.7 it is illegal to leave an animal in a car if by doing so you endanger the health or well-being of the animal. Do not leave an animal in your car during hot or warm weather. Other factors to consider are if the car is in the sun and if the windows are rolled up not allowing ventilation. Your best course is to leave your pet at home when you run errands.

Animal cruelty encompasses a wide range of offenses against animals. Neglect, abuse, animal hoarding and animal fighting can all be considered different forms of cruelty. Animals should always be provided with food, water and shelter. Pet owners are required to provide care to their animals and not let medical conditions go untended. Animals should not be harmed physically by hitting, kicking or any other malicious act. If you notice any signs of animal cruelty or suspect it is occurring, call La Mesa Animal Control immediately at 619.667.7536 or the La Mesa Police Department at 619.667.1400.

A vicious dog is considered to be aggressive in nature by any of the following or any combination of charging, growling, and biting. If you witness a dog exhibiting any of the following characteristics, contact our Animal Control Officer or if after hours contact La Mesa Police Department at 619.667.1400.

Yes, you must be 65 years of age or older, and/or disabled, no longer able to drive, and a resident of La Mesa or East County. You will need to submit a completed application prior to requesting a ride. More Information...

Permits are required for, but not necessarily limited to, residential and business additions, alterations, patio covers, decks, garden and retaining walls, swimming pools, spas, air conditioners, all electrical and plumbing installations including sprinklers, water heaters and gas lines. If you are considering an alteration to an existing building, or a new construction project, please contact the Building Division at 619.667.1176.

Construction documents for the project, which include construction plans, specifications and documentation, must be submitted at the Community Development Department counter. The submittal must include the required number of document copies, along with a completed and signed permit application. A plan check fee is due at submittal. (Fees are based upon construction valuation.) Once the plans have been reviewed and approved by all City departments, a construction permit will be issued upon verification of contractor information and the payment of the required fees.

All plans should be reviewed by the Planning Division before construction permit submittal. Call the Planning Division at 619.667.1177 for information.

Plan review applications for which no permit is issued within one year following the date of application shall expire by limitation. In order to renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee.

The site plan drawing should accurately show the property boundaries outline, the dwelling and garage outlines, the location of any exterior mechanical equipment, and the distances between any exterior equipment and property lines. The site plan drawing should also show the property address, front street location and north arrow.

Once you have obtained your permit(s), you may call the automated inspection telephone line at 619.667.1366 to request a Building Division inspection.

Please call 619.667.1177 to request a Planning Division inspection, or 619.667.1154 to request an Engineering Division inspection, or 619.667.1355 to request a Fire Department inspection.

Inspections can generally be scheduled for the next business day, if requested. Please note that City offices are closed on alternate Fridays, and no inspections are scheduled on dark Fridays. Please check the City Calendar before you call the inspection line. For additional assistance, please contact the Building Division at 619.667.1176.

A property owner doing work on his or her own property may obtain the permit. If a contractor is doing the work, it is recommended that he or she obtain the permit. For more information, please contact the Building Division at 619.667.1176.

In general, an inspection may be scheduled between 8am and 4pm. However, inspection scheduling varies from day to day due to office assignments or meetings. For additional information, please contact the Building Division at 619.667.1176.

The owner or contractor must be present during an inspection, unless the owner has given specific permission to the inspector and the work to be inspected is on the exterior with all permits and plans accessible. Inspections cannot be done if access to the work is not available, or if unsupervised minor children or unsecured animals are present. For additional information, please contact the Building Division at 619. 667.1176.

The Building Division keeps microfilm copies of all building permits issued and inspections made since property was annexed. Building plans may be available for viewing on microfilm for commercial and residential projects submitted within the last ten years. There is a nominal fee to cover the cost of making copies of permits. For additional information, please contact the Building Division at 619.667.1176.

Lists can be obtained for $.50 per business listing (200+ businesses cost $100.00) by contacting the Business License Officer at 619.667.1118 or by the email contact form below. Payment must be received prior to obtaining the list and lists may be emailed/printed out.Email Contact Form

Residential solicitation is allowed within the City however vehicle solicitation (fliers posted on vehicles in parking lots) is prohibited. Anyone may refuse solicitation and it is best to make this request at the time of the occurrence to the vendor and to ask for a business card for follow up. The City of La Mesa currently has an application process for solicitors wishing to do business within the City. The process includes fees, an investigation and the submittal of photographs. The license is valid for one year from the listed start date.

While the City of La Mesa wishes to make contact with every unlicensed solicitor we need your help! If you would like to complain about an unlicensed solicitor please follow the reporting process outlined above. Remember - while soliciting is allowed in residential areas, door-to-door, it is up to you to request "no soliciting".

The City of La Mesa business license is only a license to operate your business within the City. Business owners are responsible for all other applicable taxes, fees, and legal documents and licenses. Please see our brochure located on the "New Businesses" section for agencies to contact if you are opening a new business or changing ownership.New Businesses

The Council meets regularly on the second and the fourth Tuesday of each month at at 6:00 p.m. The meetings are held in the Council Chambers located at La Mesa City Hall, 8130 Allison Avenue, La Mesa. The Council also holds adjourned sessions and special meetings as necessary. The Council meetings are also broadcast live on the City website, the City's Facebook page, Cox Cable Channel 24 (within La Mesa City limits), and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 (in the San Diego Region).

Yes. You can watch City Council cablecasts live on Cox Cable Channel 24 (within La Mesa City limits) and on AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 (in the San Diego Region) on the second Tuesday and the fourth Tuesday of every month at 6:00 pm.

City Council agendas are prepared by the City Clerk’s office and are available free of charge by the end of the day on the Friday prior to the City Council meeting. Agendas are available online, at the City Clerk’s office, posted outside the Council Chambers, or at the meeting. A complete agenda report packet is available at the La Mesa Library, 8055 University Avenue, and at the City Clerk's Office during normal business hours.

The Members of the City Council and City staff cordially welcome you to the meetings.The agenda indicates the items scheduled for consideration at the meetings. If you wish to speak concerning any of these items when they are under consideration, please complete a "Request to Speak" card and submit it to the Council Hostess at the back of the Council Chambers. Approach the microphone at the front of the Chambers when the Mayor calls your name. When you have been recognized by the Mayor, please state your name for the record before you present your comments.In order that all who wish to speak may be heard, it is requested that you limit your presentation to three minutes.Should you wish to speak concerning an item that is not listed on the agenda, you may be heard during that part of the agenda that is listed as "Public Comments." Please complete a "Request to Speak" card and submit it to the Council Hostess at the back of the Council Chambers. Approach the microphone at the front of the Chambers when the Mayor calls your name. When you have been recognized by the Mayor, state your name for the record before speaking on the subject you have in mind.PLEASE NOTE: In accordance with state law, an item not scheduled on the agenda may be brought forward by the general public; however, the City Council will not be able to take any action at this meeting. If appropriate, the item will be referred to Staff or placed on a future agenda.For more information, please contact the City Clerk's Office at 619.667.1120. City Clerk's Page

The City of La Mesa encourages the participation and involvement of its citizens in the meeting process. The opinions of the citizens of La Mesa are an important factor in helping the Council form policy and direction. To learn more about the meeting process please take a look at the Welcome to Your City of La Mesa City Council Meeting brochure located at the back of the Council Chambers. If you have any questions, please call the City Clerk’s office at 619.667.1120.

To apply for a board, commission or committee, submit a completed application to the City Clerk’s office, located in City Hall, 8130 Allison Avenue, La Mesa, CA 91941. If you have any questions, please call the City Clerk’s office at 619.667.1120.

Applicants are appointed to the various boards, commissions and committees after a standard interview and appointment process. Unexpected vacancies are usually filled from the applications on file.

Detailed information describing the duties and responsibilities of the various boards, commissions and committees, as well as applicant qualifications, is available on this website or at the City Clerk’s Office.

You can view La Mesa's Municipal Code online. A Code book is also available at the City Clerk’s Office and at the La Mesa Library, 8055 University Avenue, during normal business hours. Municipal Code Online

Certified copies of birth and death certificates are available through the San Diego County Assessor/Recorder/Clerk’s office. Marriage licenses are also available. For specific information visit the website or call 619.237.0502. The East County branch is located at 200 South Magnolia Avenue, El Cajon, CA 92020, and the phone number is 619.401.5700.San Diego County Assessor/Recorder/Clerk’s website

Permits are required for, but not necessarily limited to, residential and business additions, alterations, patio covers, decks, garden and retaining walls, swimming pools, spas, air conditioners, all electrical and plumbing installations including sprinklers, water heaters and gas lines. If you are considering an alteration to an existing building, or a new construction project, please contact the Building Division at 619.667.1176.

Yes, you must be 65 years of age or older, and/or disabled, no longer able to drive, and a resident of La Mesa or East County. You will need to submit a completed application prior to requesting a ride. More Information...

Permission for use of City of La Mesa properties and public right-of-way are coordinated through the City’s Community Services Department. Applicants must notify the City of intended filming dates a minimum of 30 days in advance. A completed application packet and permit fee must be submitted a minimum of 20 days in advance of the requested date. Additional requirements may be required based on the type of activity and a summary of these requirements is included with the application packet. Filming Permit Application Packet

La Mesa Community Center is located at 4975 Memorial Drive in La Mesa, off La Mesa Blvd. From Freeway 8 take the Jackson Drive exit and turn right. Turn right again at La Mesa Blvd and right at Memorial Drive. Turn into the first parking lot on the right. Map

Yes, you must be 65 years of age or older, and/or disabled, no longer able to drive, and a resident of La Mesa or East County. You will need to submit a completed application prior to requesting a ride. More Information...

You may mail your payment with the citation, pay in person at the Finance Division in City Hall, or pay online. Citations not paid by the time indicated on the back of the citation may result in the citation being doubled, a $10.00 fee being added, and the citation being included on the car registration fees. Please call the Finance Division at 619.667.1117 if you have any questions about parking citation payments.

You can obtain a dog license at City Hall or through the mail. You must show proof of a current rabies vaccination. The fee for one year is $19 for an altered dog and $42 for an unaltered dog. When the dog is 12 months or older, you may purchase a license that’s good for up to three years, since rabies booster shots are good for three years. Dog Licenses

Yes, you must be 65 years of age or older, and/or disabled, no longer able to drive, and a resident of La Mesa or East County. You will need to submit a completed application prior to requesting a ride. More Information...

We are on duty seven days a week, 24 hours a day. If you have a backup, call us at 619.667.1450 (during working hours) or call the Police Department's non-emergency number at 619.667.1400 (after hours).

We will dispatch a maintenance crew to your address to find out if the stoppage is in the City’s main or your private line (sewer lateral). If the sewer main is found to be clear, it is the responsibility of the property owner to call a licensed plumber or drain service cleaning to correct the problem. The property owner is responsible for maintaining adequate flow to and through the sewer lateral from the property structure to and into the City’s sewer main.

If the stoppage is in the City’s main, we’ll fix it as quickly as possible and keep you informed about what is being done.

Applications will only be accepted for jobs that are currently open for recruitment. A City on-line application is the easiest and preferred way to apply for a position with the City; however, we will accept paper applications. To apply for an open position on-line access the following link: La Mesa, CA - Official Website - Human Resources

A City on-line application is the easiest and preferred way to apply for a position with the City; however, we will accept paper applications. Contact Human Resources at 619-667-1175 to obtain a paper copy.

All candidates offered a position with the City of La Mesa must submit to a pre-employment medical evaluation and a criminal background check. For some positions, an alcohol/drug screen is also required. Certain positions in the Police and Fire Departments may require a comprehensive background investigation and a psychological examination. All Police Department positions require a polygraph examination. Complete examination information for each position is contained in the recruitment announcement.

After applications have been reviewed, testing and interview dates will be determined and communicated to qualified candidates as soon as possible. All candidates will receive email and/or paper notification of their application status in each recruitment they apply for.

You may select a Job Interest Card for each job category that you are interested in (for example, “Accounting and Finance” or “Law Enforcement”). Or you may also select a Class Specification if you are interested in a specific job title (for example, “Director of Finance” or “Police Officer”).

You may obtain a DMV report at your local DMV office. There is a $5.00 fee. The nearest office is located at 1450 Graves Avenue, El Cajon, 92021. You may either submit an original or a copy of the DMV report.

The La Mesa Police Department’s Physical Abilities Test is a timed test which simulates a suspect chase. The total distance of the course is approximately 500 yards and includes several obstacles. The obstacles include climbing up and down horizontal bars, moving up and down stairs, and going over a three foot, four foot, and six foot wall. The candidate will also be required to lift a 155 pound dummy and drag it a moderate distance. The candidate will have three and a half minutes to complete the course. The test is pass/fail. If the candidate does not pass the test the first time, they will be given one additional opportunity when all other applicants are finished with the testing. Candidates must pass the physical abilities test before beginning the background process. The candidate must sign a liability waiver prior to participating in the Physical Abilities Test. Candidates are encouraged to arrive early and warm up prior to testing.

If you were permanently disqualified, you may never reapply for a Police Department position with the City of La Mesa. If you failed any portion of the examination (written test, physical abilities test, oral interview) you may not re-apply until 12 months after the date of the failure notice. If you pass all phases of the examination process but fail the background check, you may not re-apply until 24 months after the date of the disqualification notice. If you received a non-select letter, you may reapply any time there is another recruitment open.

Yes, you must be over 60 years of age, and/or disabled, no longer able to drive, and a resident of La Mesa or East County. You will need to submit a completed application prior to requesting a ride. More Information...

The La Mesa Community Parking Commission is an advisory board to the City Council. The Commission was created by Ordinance No. 2004-2737 adopted by the City Council on July 13, 2004. The purpose of the Commission is to ensure cost effective parking which meets the needs of the businesses, residents, and patrons by involving the community in parking management decisions. The Parking Commission can make recommendations to the City Council on matters related to parking management and operations, parking rates, expenditures on parking equipment, and capital improvements within the Downtown Village Parking District.

The Parking Commission consists of a five-person citizen advisory board, consisting of one retail merchant, one commercial business member, one resident, and two members at large. When seats on the Commission become available, the Mayor appoints Commissioners, with approval by Council, from a pool of applicants to serve 4-year terms. The current Commissioner roster is available online. Parking Commission Roster

The Parking Commission meets on the third (3rd) Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, located at City Hall at 8130 Allison Ave., La Mesa, CA 91942. The meetings are open to the public and attendees can speak on any matter on the agenda or address the Commission during the portion of the agenda dedicated to public comments.

Agendas for upcoming and/or previously held meetings, as well as meeting minutes can be accessed at the City’s website in the online document archive center . Scroll down the archive page until you find the listings for the La Mesa Community Parking Commission. Archive Center

Anyone can communicate with the Commission by attending the Commission’s regular monthly meeting and making a public comment or addressing the Commission on any matter on the agenda. Comments, concerns, or suggestions can also be relayed to the Commission through City staff by writing to the Commission care of Chris Gonzales, Community Development Program Coordinator, at 8130 Allison Ave., La Mesa, CA 91942.

The vast majority of the parking meters in the Parking District are coin-only meters, accepting nickels, dimes, and quarters. The 102 parking meters on La Mesa Boulevard, from 4th Street to Acacia Avenue, accept both coins and credit/debit cards (there is no additional fee to the consumer for using a credit/debit card to pay the meter), or a combination of coins and credit/debit card.

In most locations, the maximum parking time is two hours at a cost of $0.75/hr. If you need more than two hours time there are several locations in the Parking District that allow 4-hour parking, including 1) the Allison Avenue municipal parking lot ($0.50/hr, 4-hour max.), 2) Allison Avenue, from Spring St. to 4th Street ($0.50/hr, 4-hour max.), 3) Lemon Avenue, from Spring St. to 4th Street ($0.75/hr., 4-hour max).

Each meter is clearly marked with a sticker indicating maximum time limits and days of operation. Please observe the posted time limitations, as remaining parked past time limit and/or “feeding the meter” can result in issuance of a parking citation.

If you believe the parking meter has malfunctioned, please contact the Parking Control office at (619) 667-1482 and report the problem. Stickers on each parking meter identify the location of the meter pole and meter (e.g., pole 50, meter ‘A’), as well as phone contact information.

Parking meters are not enforced on the following holidays: January 1st; the third Monday in January, known as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day; the third Monday in February, known as Presidents Day; March 31st known as Cesar Chavez Day; Good Friday from 12 noon until 3 p.m., the last Monday in May, known as Memorial Day; July 4th; the first Monday in September, known as Labor Day; November 11th known as Veterans Day; the fourth Thursday in November, known as Thanksgiving Day, and December 25th, known as Christmas Day.

Parking citations must be paid within 21 days of issuance. For your convenience, La Mesa provides four easy ways to pay your citation: by mail, online, by phone, or in person here at City Hall. Details on each payment method, including payment website address, contact numbers and mailing addresses are available on the City's website.

There are several ways to request an administrative review of a parking citation. You can visit http://www.paymycite.com/lamesa and select the "Contest Citation" option and make your case by filling in the online form. Alternatively, you can visit the La Mesa Police Department, located at 8085 University Avenue, La Mesa, CA 91942, and fill out a Citation Contest form. Regardless of which method you choose, the La Mesa Police Department will review the form and make a determination at a later date. You will be notified of the outcome by a letter from the Parking Citation Processing Center. Contact the Parking Citation Processing Center at 855.544.9373 for additional information. PayMyCite website.

Failure to pay a parking citation within 21 days could result in the original penalty being doubled and the placement of a $10 Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) hold, and the forwarding of the citation penalty due being forwarded to the DMV. The DMV will refuse to register or re-register the vehicle cited until all citations are paid in full or dismissed.

The Parking Permit Program (PPP) provides downtown Village business owners and their employees with access to all-day parking in six designated areas throughout the Parking District at a substantially lower cost than standard parking meter rates. Users participating in the PPP will receive a hang-tag placard and a quarterly parking sticker that must be displayed when parking in a permit parking area.

There are two quarterly parking permit programs. One for the area east of Spring Street, called the East-End Program, and another for the area west of Spring Street, called the La Mesa Boulevard Lot Program.

The East-End Program offers either a $40 permit that provides access to approximately 125 parking spaces, or a $60 permit that provides access to 229 spaces in five different parking areas.

The La Mesa Boulevard Lot Program offers access to 31 spaces in the municipal parking lot located on the south side of La Mesa Boulevard, just west of Acacia Avenue.

You can find permit applications, maps of parking areas, and a guide to permit parking policies and procedures on the City's website.

Permits are renewed on a quarterly basis (January, April, July, October) and permit holders must submit a new parking permit application to the City each quarter to renew their parking permits. The City sends out an email reminder to all permit holders who have provided an email address on their previous permit applications approximately two weeks in advance of the next quarterly renewal date. The email reminder will contain information on the date that the City will start selling new permits and/or renewing existing permits and will include links to permit applications and parking policies and procedures guidelines.

Permits can be applied for and paid for at La Mesa City Hall, located at 8130 Allison Avenue or applications and payments can be mailed to:

Permit holders can check the City's website for updated information on sales and renewals at the Parking Permit Program page.

Please note that there is no grace period for expired permits after the start of a new quarter. If you have not yet received your placards and/or stickers by the start of the new quarter, please place your payment receipt on your dash until your placard/sticker arrives. Also, existing permits renewed after the first month of the quarter are not eligible for pro-rated fees.Parking Permit Program page

If you don’t currently have a parking permit, you can obtain one at any time by completing the application and submitting payment for the permits in person at La Mesa City Hall or by mail (see #16 above for address). Newly issued permits purchased after the first month of the quarter will be pro-rated.

Park Permits are required for large groups and groups using special equipment such as astrojumps. Request permit online or contact the Facilities Division at 619.667.1307 for additional information and fees. City Parks

City parks are alcohol free. However, you may obtain a Special Event Permit with a Park Use Permit for an additional processing fee. Contact the Facilities Division at 619.667.1307 for additional information and fees. Glass containers are not permitted in the parks.

Yes, you may rent the amphitheatre in Harry Griffen Park for weddings and special events. There is seating for 360 people. Call the Facilities Division at 619.667.1307 to check available of this beautiful amphitheatre. Amphitheatre

The amphitheatre at Harry Griffen Park is the only area where amplification is allowed. It takes a minimum of 10 days to process the Sound Amplification Permit. Contact the Facilities Division at 619-667-1307 to begin the permit process.

All 9-1-1 calls within the city limits of La Mesa are routed to the La Mesa Police Department. The dispatcher will evaluate the caller's needs. If the call involves a fire or medical emergency, the call is immediately transferred to the Heartland Fire Dispatch Center.

You will be asked to give your name, address and telephone number (anonymous calls are accepted). If you are safely able to do so, please remain on the telephone to provide additional information as requested.

Whether you call 9-1-1 on purpose or by accident, the dispatcher will receive your caller information even if you hang-up before the line is answered. The dispatcher will immediately call you back and inquire if an emergency exists. If the line is busy or not answered when the dispatcher attempts to call, an officer will be dispatched to the address from which the call originated to "check the welfare" of the residence or business. If you dial 9-1-1 in error, please remain on the line and advise the dispatcher that you have made a mistake.

WIRELESS 9-1-1 INFORMATION GUIDE: HOW TO USE YOUR CELL PHONE TO CALL 9-1-1 What is Wireless 9-1-1? Wireless 9-1-1 is the term used to refer to emergency calls made to 9-1-1 for wireless cellular phones. A cellular (cell) phone is actually a radio transmitter and a receiver that uses radio frequencies or channels, instead of a traditional telephone wire, to connect callers. Because cell phones are very portable, they are not associated with one fixed location or address. The cell tower (cell site) used to transmit a cellular 9-1-1 call provides only a general location of the cellular caller. This location information is not specific enough for public safety personnel to respond in a timely manner. For many, the ability to call 9-1-1 for help in an emergency is one of the main reasons they own a cellular phone. Other cellular 9-1-1 calls come from "good Samaritans" reporting traffic collisions, criminal activity or other emergencies. While cell phones can be an important public safety tool, they also create unique challenges for public safety, emergency response personnel and wireless service providers because of their mobility. To expedite the processing of cellular 9-1-1 calls by public safety dispatchers, you should remember the following: * Immediately advise the dispatcher of the location of the emergency, including the city-if known. If you are not sure of the location, look for helpful markers such as street signs, local landmarks, or freeway exits that will help the dispatcher pinpoint your location. * Provide the dispatcher with your cell phone number so that if the call is disconnected, the dispatcher can call you back. If you do not know your cell phone number, memorize it. * Remain calm and be prepared to provide specific answers to questions asked by the dispatcher related to the emergency you are reporting (i.e., where, what, when, who, weapons, injuries, medical history). DO NOT HANG UP until the dispatcher instructs you to do so. * If your cell phone is not "initialized" (i.e., you do not currently have a contract for service with a wireless service provider) and your call is disconnected, you must call the dispatcher back because they will not have your phone number to call you back. * Become familiar with features of your cell phone, especially the "keypad lock" feature, which prevents accidental dialing. Many 9-1-1 calls made to the La Mesa Police Department are the result of accidental dialing. The processing of accidental calls may delay help for those callers with true emergencies. * The accidental calling of cell phones can occur when a cell phone is carried carelessly in pockets, purses, strollers, waistbands and gym bags without activating the "keypad lock" feature. * Refrain from programming your cell phone to automatically dial 9-1-1 to prevent accidental dialing. Please consult your cell phone's user manual for further information on this and other phone features. * Using your phone while driving can be very dangerous. Whenever possible and it is safe to do so, pull over and park your vehicle before using your cell phone. * Cellular calls made to 9-1-1 have helped to save many lives. In part, this is due to callers taking the time to get involved and report emergencies. However, the La Mesa Police Department cautions you not to place yourself in harms way when reporting crimes in progress and other dangerous situations. * Tips for Cell Phone Users When calling 9-1-1 from your cell phone, be prepared to state the location of your emergency, your cell phone number and the nature of your emergency. This information is essential to providing emergency help and is vital in the event of phone signal interference or premature disconnection. Wireless 9-1-1 is an important safety tool. However, if you do not know your location, public safety personnel will be delayed in providing assistance. Every second counts in an emergency. The following instances are examples of when it is most appropriate to call 9-1-1 from your cell phone: * Life threatening medical emergency * Crimes in progress * Reckless or suspected drunk driver * Traffic collision with injuries * Any type of fire (vehicle, structure, etc.) * Traffic hazard blocking the roadway The La Mesa Police Department encourages the use of non-emergency phone numbers to contact the fire and police departments for general information and routine requests.

Contact the San Diego County Jail at 619.615.2700 for male prisoners or Las Colinas Detention Center at 619.258.3176 for female prisoners. You may also look up information on the Sheriff's Department website:

You must fill out a request form at La Mesa Police headquarters, 8085 University Avenue. It will take 7-10 days to process your request and the report will be mailed to you. The cost for report copies is 10 cents per page.

Call the Police Department with the license plate or VIN and they will be able to tell you why the car was impounded and what tow company has the vehicle. When a vehicle has been impounded, a release from the Police Department is required before you will be able to get the vehicle back from the tow company. If there was a registration problem, we will need some paperwork from the DMV showing the issue has been corrected. The vehicle owner will need to come to the Police Department with proper ID and the DMV paperwork. Be sure you or someone with you has a valid driver’s license. You will have to pay an impound fee at the Police Department for the release, present it to the tow company, and pay their charges as well.

La Mesa’s Municipal Code says vehicles may not be parked in the same place for more than 72 hours without being moved. The Police Department’s RSVP Unit handles such complaints. Call the Police Department at 619.667.1400 and provide the location and description of the vehicle. An RSVP unit will begin by marking the vehicle. If the vehicle has not been moved by the time they return at least 72 hours later, a parking citation will be issued and the vehicle may be towed.

You can register a complaint with the Police Department by filling out a Barking Dog Questionnaire. This form can be completed online or downloaded below. You may also pick up a copy from Police Headquarters at 8085 University Avenue.

To receive a copy of a criminal history record, individuals must submit Live Scan or Manual fingerprints and a $25 fee to the California Department of Justice.

The La Mesa Police Department can provide individuals with information on their local criminal history, but this would only include records of incidents which occurred in the City of La Mesa. Individuals wishing to review their entire criminal history record from any jurisdiction in California should contact the Department of Justice or visit the Attorney General's website at http://ag.ca.gov/fingerprints/security.php regarding fingerprinting.

The La Mesa Police Department is a Department of Justice authorized Live Scan site and can assist in obtaining the fingerprints required for a criminal records check.

The curfew hours in La Mesa begin at 10 PM and end at 5 AM. These hours apply all year long and include Friday and Saturday nights as well as Sunday through Thursday. Other cities or unincorporated areas may vary, so you should check with the appropriate jurisdiction for where your child will be.

Yes. Exceptions include when juveniles are with a parent, guardian, or responsible adult, in an emergency, or when attending an organized activity, such as for school. A complete list of the exceptions can be found in Section 10.20.050 of La Mesa's Municipal Code, available on our website.

For Police Officer Trainee, the entry level position for the La Mesa Police Department; applicants must be at least 21 years old and possess a driver’s license. You must be a U.S. Citizen or a permanent resident alien with an application for U.S. citizenship; and you must possess at least a high school diploma from a US high school or a G.E.D.

Once the application is processed, you will be contacted via email with available dates to take the written test. The City of La Mesa Human Resources determines the location and the times of the written test.

Any felony convictions as a juvenile or an adult, and any misdemeanor domestic violence convictions; will automatically disqualify an applicant amongst other factors. For specifics you can contact the recruiting and backgrounds unit.

The following items: use of marijuana within the past two years or any illicit drugs within the past five years, several hazardous traffic violations, or any serious criminal offenses will be concerns when evaluating your viability. Applicants are expected to be 100% honest in these areas. All offenses will be evaluated by the Backgrounds Unit.

There are no height or weight requirements. Every applicant who is processed will be required to pass a rigorous 500 yard obstacle course which simulates a suspect chase. They must pass the obstacle course in 3 minutes 30 seconds or less.

Mentally, law enforcement is challenging and rewarding career. It is also a potentially dangerous career. Make sure you think about that and discuss it with your family. The one thing that you can do now to prepare for the academy is to get in shape. You can take the physical stress out of the academy equation if you start today. While physically training for the academy, don’t limit yourself to only running also do circuit and weight training for improved academy performance. Socially, avoid risk taking behavior it can lead to someone else being hired instead of you. Review your social media and remove inappropriate material. Remember some of our Core Values are integrity and commitment.

Starting salary for Police Officer starts at approximately $62,961.60 a year while in the academy and will reach top step of approximately $84,198.40 a year. Pay scales for ranks above police officer are higher depending on rank achieved. These figures are subject to change due to new contract negotiations.

The City of La Mesa offers a "cafeteria-style" benefits plan. Each employee is allotted a set amount of dollars each year for individual and family health care plans, with the employee choosing a plan to best suits their needs.

Recruits will be required to run at least 3 1/2 miles a day at the start of the academy. By the end of academy training, recruits will be running up to 7 miles a day several times a week. Some of the new workouts include Cross Fit style programs.

Upon graduation, Police Officers will be scheduled for an additional training program with a Field Training Officer. Once training is complete, new officers will be assigned to one of four patrol shifts depending on needs of the department.

Yes. However, California POST requires out-of-state lateral officers to obtain a California POST Certificate. Officers who do not have a California POST Certificate will be required to attend the San Diego Regional Police Academy. Please visit the California P.O.S.T website at www.post.ca.gov for additional information on P.O.S.T certification and potentially obtaining waivers.

No. Background investigations may be completed in as little as two months and could take up to eight months. Special scheduling arrangements may be made to accommodate individuals traveling from out-of-county destinations.

The hiring process is the same for all applicants. The process will consist of a written and physical ability test, completing a preliminary investigative questionnaire and submitting a personal history statement packet. Once you have successfully completed the listed steps and are deemed to be a viable candidate, you will be contacted and instructed to complete a series of interviews, a polygraph and psychological evaluation and a medical screening.

All new Officers will start their careers in the patrol division. Three years after Academy graduation, Officers are eligible to apply for a special assignment. A college degree could help obtain a future special assignment.

After three years in a patrol assignment, officers are eligible to apply for other specialized assignments. Examples of these assignments include; Special Response Team, Canine Handler, Investigations, Street Team, Special Enforcement Detail and Motor Officer.

In order to be live scanned, you will need a Request for Live Scan form (this is obtained from your employer, or whoever is requesting the fingerprinting to be done), you will also need a valid form of identification (driver's license, California Identification Card, or a passport are accepted), cash, check, or credit card to pay for the service. If requesting a criminal history record, you can download the form, print it out and bring to the live scan site.

This material is a non-toxic, non-staining, environmentally safe spray pattern indicator. The Park Maintenance Division uses it during herbicide applications to avoid overlap and missed areas. The color is only temporary and dissipates in a few days.

The Adopt-A-Park Program is a program which allows for local businesses, schools, service organizations and even families to Adopt a City park and perform basic park maintenance tasks on the weekend. The adoption is for a one-year period and a sign is hung at the park naming the adopters. Currently seven of our fourteen parks have been adopted. If you are interested in adopting a park, please contact the Adult Enrichment Center at 619.667.1322 or the Public Works Department at 619.667.1450 for further information.

For the most part, the answer is YES! If the material is appropriate for park use and in a pot (we won't come into your yard and dig it out), we will be more than happy to accept it. Many people donate their live Christmas trees and even indicate where they would like them planted.

The Give-A-Tree Program is a formal tree donation program. The donors deposit $200 into the Give-A-Tree account through the Finance Division at City Hall. Then details such as the type of tree, location, time and date of planting are worked out with the Park Maintenance Supervisor. A 24" box tree is purchased and, with the help from the donors if they wish, is planted. A plaque is then engraved with the name of the person for whom the tree was planted and added to the Give-A-Tree Plaque which hangs at City Hall. Please call 667-1450 for more information.